1. Cray Valley (PM) Ladies P18 W14 D2 L2 F48 A16 PTS 44
2. Baldon Sports P18 W14 D1 L3 F68 A15 PTS 43
3. Dartford Women Reserves P18 W12 D0 L6 F74 A22 PTS 36
4. Glebe Ladies P18 W9 D4 L5 F39 A29 PTS 31
5. Margate FC Ladies P18 W10 D1 L7 F54 A46 PTS 31
6. Aylesford 2nds P18 W6 D4 L8 F32 A36 PTS 22
7. Sittingbourne Ladies First P18 W4 D8 L6 F28 A30 PTS 20
8. Borough Green Junior Ladies P18 W4 D3 L11 F37 A57 PTS 15
9. Castle Colts Ladies P18 W4 D3 L11 F23 A53 PTS 15
10. Ramsgate FC Women P18 W0 D0 L18 F19 A118 PTS -2 *

Manager: Dean Jarman
Assistant Manager: Adrian Hunt

Total Appearances inc subs (League 18, Cup 10, Friendlies 8): Annemarie Blanche 33, Lucy Robertson 32, Lauren Henry 31, Vic D'Urso 29, Katie Jackson 29, Lia Morphitis 29, Sam Sharp 29, Louise Chenery 28, Danelle De Sousa 25, Grace Dodds 25, Claire Goldsmith 25, Eve Sales 23, Courtney Rollings 22, vic Boddington 19, Katie Hicks 16, Charlotte Knife 14, Claire Willicombe 14, Alice Wilcox 10, Sara Llewelyn 8, Chelsea Billings 7, Hannah Atkins 6, Keisha Feagan 5, Emma Colby 4, Jodie Elliott 3, Amber Gifford 1

Goals (League + Cup/Friendlies): Katie Jackson 23 (11 + 12), Annemarie Blanche 19 (15 +4), Lucy Robertson 15 (13 + 2), Vic Bodington 11 (6 + 5), Danelle De Sousa 11 (10 + 1), Eve Sales 7 (5 + 2), Claire Goldsmith 5 (3 + 2), Sara Llewelyn 4 (3+1), Lauren Henry 4 (4 + 0), Charlotte Knipe 3 (2 + 1), Vic D'Urso 2 (1 + 1), Katie Hicks 2 (1 + 1), Grace Dodds 2 (2 + 0), Jodie Elliott 1 (1 + 0), Lia Morphitis 1 (0 + 1), Courtney Rollings 1 (0 + 1), Alice Wilcox 1 (1 + 0)

Kent Womens Plate Runners-up
Thursday 26th May at the Gallagher Stadium Maidstone
Final - Cray Valley 0 v Herne Bay Reserves 1

Heartbreak for the Millers Ladies
Cray Valley Ladies suffered heartbreak at the Gallagher Stadium tonight in the final of the Kent Womens Plate losing to the only goal of the game in the 86th minute against Herne Bay Reserves. A tight game with some excellent football on show and both goalkeepers making vital saves along the way. Disappointment for Cray Ladies to lose the game but they can be proud of their efforts and achievements throughout what has proved to be a terrific season.

Cray Valley Line Up: Sharp, Henry, Chenery, D'Urso, Dodds, Jackson, Blanche (capt), Goldsmith, Robertson, De Souza, Llewelyn, Subs used roll on, roll off Elliott, Sales, Atkins Subs not used Morphitis, Hicks.

Herne Bay keeper's outstretched hand saves Lucy Robertson's free kick.

Match Video Highlights courtesy of @BSportsphotos
https://www.crayvalleypmfc.com/videos/cray-valley-highlights--cray-valley-pm-fc-ladies-vs-herne-bay-fc-reverses-ladies-179497.html

Additional photos courtesy of SECWFL Photographer Julie Hoare - Jules 2022
https://www.crayvalleypmfc.com/photos/kent-womens-plate-final--cray-valley-ladies-v-herne-bay-reserves-26522-1020614.html

Additional Match Report: Kent Online
https://www.kentonline.co.uk/herne-bay/sport/kent-womens-plate-final-267804/

Extract from the match day programme:
Cray Valley (PM) Ladies FC Player Pen Pics

1 Sam Sharp
Experienced Goalkeeper joined 2018 and has been excellent between the sticks ever since, a model of consistency. 45 league & cup appearances
2 Katie Hicks
The sides utility player willingly stepping in to help when needed including goalkeeper when Sam was injured.
3 Lia Morphitis
Classy experienced left back, hits a quality free kick, member of the team since the club’s first season in 2015/16 and now totals 122 league & cup appearances.
4 Alice Wilcox
Fairly recent addition to the side who has settled in very well covering anywhere across the defence.
5 Lauren Henry
Attacking right back, crosses the ball with power, in her fifth season notching 83 appearances to date. Has scored 4 goals this season.
6 Vittoria D’Urso
Dependable centre back, another model of consistency, 67 appearances in her four seasons at the club.
7 Louise Chenery
Youngest member of the team, lightning pace and a terrific engine, covers a lot of ground from midfield. 53 appearances over four seasons.
8 Lucy Robertson
In recent seasons has made the left wing position her own, great crosser of the ball, another who has been at the club from the beginning. 129 appearances and 48 goals in 7 seasons.
9 Katie Jackson
Attacking pacey right winger, with an eye for goal, second season at the club making 31 appearances with 15 goals to date.
10 Claire Goldsmith
Joined this season and has established herself as a mainstay in the middle of the park adding some competitiveness and composure making 21 appearances to date.
11 Sara Llewelyn
Skilful striker, a recent signing having previously played at Swansea City, brings a real attacking threat upfront, netted four times in seven appearances.
12 Josie Elliott
An experienced striker, opportunities limited this season due to injury but a real handful for defenders if fit.
13 Annemarie Blanche
The clubs captain, leads by example, works tirelessly in midfield and contributes her share of the goals, 15 this campaign her best. In her fifth season has now notched 90 appearances with 40 goals.
14 Eve Sales
Used this season mainly as an impact striker coming off the bench. Scored the vital goal in the plate semi final at Sevenoaks Town.
15 Hannah Atkins
Striker. Recently joined and opportunities limited but has worked hard when given the opportunity.
16 Courtney Rollings
Experienced centre back now in her sixth season with the club making 79 appearances. A real character and can be relied upon to shout instructions and encouragement from the back.
17 Grace Dodds
A versatile player who can cover in defence or out wide. Been with the club since the beginning and good to see her back playing after missing two full seasons due to injury. Has still managed 86 appearances.
19 Danielle De Souza
Offers great versatility playing anywhere across the park. Has a good scoring record including the vital goal against Bromley in the plate quarter final. Second season making 29 appearances with 13 goals.
20: Charlotte Knipe
Useful member of the squad, opportunities have been limited this season but always gives 100% and has weighed in with a couple of goals.

Route to the Final:

Sunday 24th April 2022 - Kent Women's Plate
Semi Final - Sevenoaks Town 0 Cray Valley 1
Goals: CV - Sales 79

CRAY TRIUMPH THROUGH LATE SALES WINNER
Cray Valley Ladies reached the final of the Kent Women's Plate after beating Sevenoaks Town 1-0 at Greatness Park this afternoon with Eve Sales scoring the winner in the 79th minute. Katie Jackson raced down the left flank and after cutting inside saw her shot from inside the area parried by the Town keeper, however Sales was in the right place at the right time and took full advantage firing home the rebound past a covering defender on the line.

An excellent game summed up by a tweet from yesterday's match referee Ste Daley who was ably assisted by Mike Coward and Michael Corderoy.
Tweet: "Was an honour to referee the @KentFA Women’s plate cup semi final today between @STFCWomen and @CrayLadies A very competitive game of football that either team could have won, both teams should be proud of their performances, good luck to CV in the final and commiserations to ST"

The final will take place on Thursday 26th May at the Gallagher Stadium, Maidstone kick off 19.00pm. Cray's opponents will be either Beckenham Town or Herne Bay Reserves whose semi final takes place next Sunday 1st May.

Cray Valley Line Up: Sharp, Henry, D'Urso, Rollings, Morphitis, Jackson, Chenery, Blanche (capt), Goldsmith, Robertson, Llewellyn, Subs (all used roll on, roll off) Wilcox, De Souza, Sales, Dodds, Hicks.

Pre-match video's
The Walk on
https://www.crayvalleypmfc.com/videos/the-walk-on-178681.html

The Greeting
https://www.crayvalleypmfc.com/videos/the-greeting-178682.html

Sunday 27th February 2022 - Kent Women's Plate
Quarter Final - Cray Valley 1 Bromley 0
Goal: CV - De Sousa 5

MILLERS LADIES REACH CUP SEMI FINAL
Cray Valley Ladies earned a semi-final place in the Kent FA Womens Plate beating Bromley by the only goal of the game scored in the fifth minute by Danielle De Souza. After Lauren Henry's free kick was blocked, the ball fell to Lia Morphitis whose pass found Katie Jackson, her ball in sat up nicely for De Souza to execute a fine finish on the volley high into the corner of the net, giving the keeper no chance.
Bromley pressed forward in search of an equaliser and Samantha Sharp in the Cray goal made the first of a number of excellent saves in the 14th minute. Vittoria D'Urso the Cray centre back came to the rescue 6 minutes later with a goal line clearance. Cray was forced onto the back foot but good defending saw out the half to go into the interval with a one goal lead.
Second half possession was dominated by Bromley with the bulk of the chances going their way however Cray continued to defend very well and Sharp in goal had a terrific game. Cray rode their luck a bit at times and Bromley saw the ball hit the cross bar twice in quick succession but Sharp was alert to the rebound each time. Cray rarely troubled the Bromley keeper although she was forced to make a save from a Grace Dodds shot with just over ten minutes remaining. Late on Sharp made another save stretching out a hand as the ball seemed destined for the bottom corner.
Cray stuck to the task throughout and the whole team can be proud of their efforts in this hard fought victory and will now play Sevenoaks Town away in the Semi-Final on Sunday 24th April.

Cray line-up: Sharp, Henry, Morphitis, D'Urso, Rollings, Dodds, Goldsmith, Blanche (capt), Robertson, De Souza, Jackson. Subs: Knipe, Hicks.

Sunday 16th January 2022 - Kent Women's Plate
Third Round - Cray Valley 2 Dartford Reserves 1
Goals: CV - Robertson 18, 77
D - Ascott 4

ROBO DOUBLE CLINCHES PLATE WIN FOR MILLERS LADIES
An excellent game of football on a cold but sunny afternoon watched by a healthy sized turnout of onlookers saw Cray Valley Ladies clinch a narrow victory in this third round Kent Womens Plate cup tie. With the the two sides occupying first and second place in division one east of the SECWFL at the start of the day a tight affair was always likely and so it turned out to be with little to choose between the two teams.
Cray started brightly and Eve Sales went close heading over from close range. However it was Dartford who took an early lead in the 4th minute a pass splitting the defence for the winger to run onto and Aimee Ascott finished well from just inside the box. Dartford could have extended their lead but an outstretched leg saw the ball fly over the bar. Cray equalised in the 18th minute Lucy Robertson chipping the keeper from out wide and the ball dropping into the far corner of the net.
Cray were awarded a penalty just after the half hour but Annemarie Blanche saw her shot go wide of the target. Lia Morphitis went close with a shot just past the post but it remained 1-1 at the interval.
Second half and Cray began to dominate possession although Dartford looked dangerous on the break and had a goal ruled out for offside. With extra time looking a possibility Cray took the lead with thirteen minutes remaining, Lucy Robertson scoring her second of the game. The keeper blocked her initial effort as she broke through on goal but was able to control the rebound and calmly slot home past the defender on the line.
Cray saw the game out and the 2-1 victory sees them now face Bromley Ladies at home in the quarter final. Date to be confirmed although Sunday 30th January would seem likely.

Cray Valley line up: Sharp, Henry, De Sousa, Rollings, Morphitis, Jackson, Goldsmith, Chenery, Blanche, Robertson, Sales, Subs used (roll on, roll off) Billings, Bodington, Dodds. Subs not used: Colby, Knipe.

Sunday 21st November 2021
Second Round - Kings Hill v Cray Valley away win walkover

Woman's FA Cup -First Qualifying Round
Sunday 12th September 2021
Cray Valley Lades 1 Tunbridge Wells Forresters 3
Goals: CV - L Robertson (44')
TWF - T Hardie (25'), K Moran (65'), B Mackley (85')
Millers line up: Sharp, Henry, Morphitis, D'Urso, Rollings, Chenery, De Souza, Blanche, Robertson, Bodington, Elliott, subs used Jackson (replaced Elliott), Goldsmith (replaced De souza), Dodds (replaced Bodington) , subs unused Knipe, Hicks, Willicombe.

Foresters end the Millers Ladies FA Cup dreams
There was no fairytale start to the Millers Ladies first ever FA Cup campaign beaten 3-1 on their debut match in the first qualifying round by Tunbridge Wells Foresters at the Artic Stadium. Congratulations to the Foresters, deserved winners over the 90 minutes and they will now make the trip to take on Dartford Women managed by Cray Valley's Connor Dymond in the next round on Sunday 3rd October.
The Millers Ladies looked splendid in the their new blue kit, worn for the first time, sponsored by the Relative Group of Companies https://www.rgwgroup.co.uk . The Millers went behind on 25 minutes, a breakaway down the right and the low cross found Talia Hardie at the far post who finished well giving Millers keeper Samantha Sharp no chance. However the Millers probably created the better chances during that first half, Josie Elliott heading over from a difficult angle almost under the bar after good work from Lucy Robertson being the pick. The cross bar was struck from a Courtney Rollings effort in the box following a corner and another shot grazed the top. The equaliser came just a minute from the interval when Lucy Robertson's floated cross deflected off a defenders head and nestled into the bottom corner of the net. It appeared to be going in anyway so happy to credit Lucy with the goal.
It all seemed set for the Millers Ladies to win the game in the second half, as has happened many times in the past. However it was the Foresters who came out on top and they re-gained the lead in the 65th minute, a far post header by Kelly Moran finding its way over the line almost in slow motion agonisingly just out of the reach of Sam in goal. Louise Chenery had a couple of dangerous looking runs threw the middle but the Millers failed to impose themselves on the game in the second half. The Foresters made the game safe and with it passage through to the next round with five minutes remaining on the clock scoring from another breakaway this time finished by Becky Macklee.
So no complaints about the result but a sense of missed opportunity as the Millers Ladies didn't play as well as we know they can.
Photos:
https://www.crayvalleypmfc.com/photos/cray-valley-ladies-fa-cup-v-tw-foresters-12921-988344.html

League Cup First Round
Whyteleafe Development 7 Cray Valley Ladies 3
Goals: WD - V D'Urso (10' OG), Unknown (37'), (34'), (50'), (78'), (80'), (89')
CV - D De Souza (25'), (85'), C Goldsmith (74')
Millers Line Up: Sharp, Henry, D'Urso, Billings, Willicombe, Jackson, Blanche (capt), Goldsmith, Chenery, Robertson, De Souza, Subs both used (roll on. roll off), Dodds, Wilcox.

The Leafe prove too good for Millers
Whyteleafe proved too good for Cray Valley on the day, progressing through to the next round of the league cup. More difficult to provide a detailed match report this week, as the writer was seconded to referee the game with the appointed match official a no show. Well done to both sides for a game played in the right way with probably only three or four free kicks having to be awarded throughout. It certainly made for an easy game to be in the middle.

A lively start saw Whyteleafe go close and then at the other end an Annemarie Blanche shot went just past the post. The opening goal on the 3G surface came for Whyteleafe after ten minutes, an unfortunate own goal by Vittoria D'Urso. After Samantha Sharp made a great save in the Cray goal, Cray equalised through Danielle De Souza, a terrific strike from a free kick just outside the box. Lucy Robertson and Katie Jackson both had efforts saved but as half time approached Whyteleafe began to take charge and at the interval led 3-1.

Whyteleafe were quick on the break and soon extended their lead after the interval to make it 4-1. Claire Goldsmith pulled a goal back but Whyteleafe with some excellent play added a fifth and sixth. De Souza did manage her second of the game before Whyteleafe added a seventh with almost the final kick of the game. Final score 7-3.

League and Friendlies Match By Match:

Pre-season
Sun Aug 1st - Cray Valley Ladies 2 Aylesford 5
Sun Aug 8th - FC Peak Ladies 0 Cray Valley Ladies 17
Weds Aug 11th - Parkwood Rangers 2 Cray Valley Laidies 0
Sun Aug 15th - Cray Valley Ladies 0 Welling United Women 5
Sun Aug 22nd - Cray Valley Ladies 3 Footscray Lionesses 2
Sun Aug 29th - Oakwood Ladies 4 Cray Valley Ladies 3

Sunday 5th September 2021 - SECWFL Division 1 East
Cray Valley Ladies 2 v Ramsgate FC Women 1
Goals: CV - Bodington 40, Blanche 46
R - Enright 15
Cray Valley Line up: Morphitis, Henry, D'Urso, Rollings, Dodds, Colby, Chenery, Blanche, De Souza, Robertson, Bodington. Subs (all used roll on, roll off) Feagan, Willicombe, Knipe.

Ladies gutsy performance seals opening day win
A gutsy performance from Cray Valley Ladies sealed a comeback win on the opening day of the South East Counties Women's Football League Division One East v Ramsgate FC Women.

Ramsgate look the lead early in the first half Holly Enright raced through on goal and finished well, shooting low into the far corner, past stand in keeper Lia Morphitis. Cray Valley were called upon to defend for long periods in that first half, Ramsgate hitting the post on one occasion, but held their nerve and were rewarded with breakaway equaliser Vic Bodington holding off the attentions of the defender to take the ball into the area and score from close range five minutes from the interval. Half Time 1-1

Cray Valley went ahead a minute into the second half, good passing involving Lauren Henry, Grace Dodds and Vic Bodington whose pass inside found captain Annemarie Blanche in the centre and she scored from just inside the box. Cray Valley should have increased their lead with Lucy Robertson going close a couple of times. However the third goal eluded them and as such were forced to defend well in a close encounter. A gutsy performance indeed.

Special mention to Lia in goal who grew in confidence and was commanding when needed particularly in the second half. Lauren Henry had an excellent game and was nominated as the Cray Valley player of the match by her team mates. Well played Ladies and a welcome three points in what promises to be a very competitive division.

Sunday 26th September 2021 -SECWFL Division 1 East
Cray Valley Ladies 4 v Sittingbourne Ladies 1
Goals: CV - A Blanche 7, 75, L Robertson 24, D De Souza 79
S - Corbel 36
Cray Valley Line Up: Sharp, Henry, D'Urso, Rollings, Morphitis, Chenery, Blanche (Capt), De Sousa, Goldsmith, Robertson, Jckson subs all used roll on, roll off Bodington, Billings, Dodds.

Millers Ladies home comforts
Familiar opponents as Chris and his Sittingbourne side arrived at Oxford Road on consecutive Sundays following last weeks cup encounter decided on penalties after extra time. The Cray Ladies strengthen this week with the return of several players for this league fixture.

Annemarie Blanche opened the scoring in the seventh minute, her shot finding the back of the net after combining well with Katie Jackson whose initial shot had been saved by the goalkeeper. Cray were very much on top and Lucy Robertson's cross found the head of Claire Goldsmith but was unable to direct on target and the ball went over the top. Robertson added a second striking Goldsmith's pass first time pass the keeper.

Robertson looked to have repeated the feat shortly after to make it three but was given offside. To add to the frustration, a minute later on 36 minutes Sittingbourne pulled a goal back, a long range effort into the top of the net. Thereafter Sittingbourne enjoyed their best spell and Samantha Sharp in the Millers goal tipped over another long range effort to maintain the lead. HT 2-1

Second half and ten minutes in Louise Chenery broke through on goal, the referee waving play on to over rule an offside flag but Chenery couldn't take advantage and her low shot was blocked by the keeper. Cray then made the game safe with two goals on 75 and 79 minutes both from Robertson's corner kicks. A Blanche header for her second of the game and Danielle De Souza getting the vital touch for the fourth.
Excellent defending saw out the game and it finished 4-1.

The Cray Ladies can be pleased with the performance and result today giving them six points from their two opening league games, both at home. Home comforts indeed.

Sunday 10th October 2021 - SECWFL Division 1 East
Cray Valley Ladies 3 Baldon Sports Ladies 2
Goals: CV - Blanche 24, Jackson 29, De Souza 90
BS -Brown 21, Macquire 35
Cray Valley line up: Hicks, Henry. D'Urso, Rollings, Morphitis, Chenery, Blanche (capt), De Souza, Goldsmith, Robertson, Jackson. Subs used (roll on roll off) Bodington, Dodds, Subs not used: Knipe, Willicombe, Sharp.

De Souza late strike wins if for the Millers Ladies.
An excellent game with both sides playing some good football. The Millers Ladies left it late but snatched the three points through a Danielle De Souza strike with virtually the last kick of the game. The moment was captured on video by Claire Willicombe and can be found elsewhere on this website including under the overview tab.

Cray Valley started brightly with Captain Annemarie Blanche having a shot well saved by the Baldon keeper. Shortly after a Lia Morphitis free kick out wide found the unmarked Courtney Rollings but her header went over the top. However it was Baldon Sports who took the lead with powerful long range shot from Demi Brown that flew high into the back of the net.

The lead didn't last long though as three minutes later the scores were level again, Blanche reacting quickly and taking advantage of some hesitancy between the defender and keeper to blast the ball high into the net from close in after good work from Claire Goldsmith and Morphitis. Blanche nearly added a second as her shot went just over the top.

Cray took the lead on 29 minutes Katie Jackson finishing after Goldsmith and Lucy Robertson combined well. Six minutes later and Baldon equalised making the score two a piece at half time.

Second half saw both teams searching for that third goal. Whilst Cray probably had more of the play, Jackson firing over their best chance, Baldon also went close on a couple of occasions. Special mention to Katie Hicks thrust into goal just before kick off after usual custodian Samantha Sharp twisted her ankle in the warm up. Hicks produced two or three excellent saves in that second period and with the defence throwing themselves into the firing line to block shots, Baldon were kept at bay.

All level going into the final minute or so and from the far kick just inside the touchline the ball broke to De Souza outside the box, her first effort was blocked but the rebound fell nicely, she took a few steps forward and volleyed the ball into the top corner giving the keeper no chance. Harsh on Baldon but Cray were delighted and fully deserved the victory for their efforts not least for defending well and protecting Katie in goal, who herself was excellent as well.

Sunday 24th October 2021 - SECWFL Division 1 East
Ramsgate FC Women 2 v Cray Valley Ladies 8
Goals: CV - V Bodington 20, L Robertson 35, E Sales 60, K Jackson 68, 73, A Blanche 70, L Henry 80, C Knipe 83
R - B Brenchley 44, S Nightingale 46
Cray Valley Line Up: Hicks, Henry, Morphitis, Billings, D'Urso, Jackson, Chenery, Goldsmith, Robertson, Blanche (capt), Bodington, Subs used (roll on, roll off) Sales, Willicombe, Knipe.

Millers Ladies win big under floodlights
A comprehensive win from Cray Valley Ladies who played some excellent passing football at times. The scoreline certainly didn't flatter and with better finishing could have been well into double figures. The win maintains Cray's 100% start to the league campaign in this their fourth match, their first away after three home wins.

A late 4pm start was scheduled however this turned into nearly 5pm when the preceding cup game on the excellent new 4G surface at Ramsgate's Southwood Stadium went into extra time, having apparently themselves kicked off late after an earlier game had also overrun. Not ideal with a 130 mile round trip for most to contend with, making for a very late return home. It did mean we got full use of the floodlights though.

Cray dominated the opening period and it was nearly ten minutes or so before Ramsgate were able to venture out of their half. During this time chance after chance went begging. Eventually the breakthrough came and it was Vic Bodington who scored after 20 minute to give Cray the lead. Chances continued to be missed but the lead was doubled on 35 minutes with Lucy Robertson the scorer. Ramsgate pulled a goal back on the stroke of half time through Bethany Brenchley, capitalising on an error when the ball was given away on the edge of the box. Half time 1-2.

Second half and Ramsgate equalised immediately number 3 Sandra Nightingale racing through to slot past Katie Hicks in goal. Having been very much on top for the majority of the first half and having missed so many chances to find the score level was a tough one to take. However to Cray's credit they continued to play football and eventually got their rewards with six more goals in the second half. Before that Ramsgate went close though to taking the lead when the scorer of their second goal broke away but this time with a tighter angle pushed her low shot just past the post. The vital third goal to regain the lead came from Eve Sales who fired home from an acute angle on the hour. From thereon in the goals came relatively quickly, first Katie Jackson then Annemarie Blanche, excellent in a more advance role, got the fifth. Jackson added her second, followed by Lauren Henry whose header from Lucy Robertson's corner went in off the post and defender. With seven minutes remaining Charlotte Knipe grabbed an eighth with a fine finish much to the obvious joy of the Cray bench, a rare but deserved goal for the hard working Charlotte.

Our nomination for Ramsgate player of the match was unanimously their goalkeeper Hayley Smith who made a number of good saves and whilst Cray were at times guilty of hitting their shots straight at the keeper, nevertheless she stood her ground well time and time again to thrwart the Cray attack. Every Cray player can be pleased with their efforts today and it was at times a real joy to watch. Final Score 2-8

Sunday 7th November 2021 - SECWFL Division 1 East
Cray Valley Ladies 3 v Margate Ladies 1
Goals: CV - K Jackson 14, L Robertson 17, G Dodds 75
M - Aldridge 65
Millers line up: Sharp, Henry, D'Urso, De Souza, Morphitis, Jackson, Goldsmith, Chenery, Robertson, Blanche, Sales, Subs used (roll on roll off) Dodds, Knipe. Subs unused Hicks, Willicombe.

Ladies hit top spot
Cray Valley Ladies produced arguably their best performance of the season to beat a good Margate side and make it five wins in five games in the league to go top. No one is getting carried away and four of those victories have been at home at what currently feels like fortress Oxford Road. Some tough games and away trips to come in the coming weeks and months not least next Sunday when we visit Sittingbourne.

Fine lines in football and it was Margate who were quicker out of the blocks and went close twice in the opening five minutes. Kara Richardson a threat out wide was the instigator which led to one chance going just wide and another just over the top. However it remained goalless and it was in fact Cray Valley who opened the scoring on the quarter hour a fine finish from Katie Jackson.

Three minutes later and Cray Valley added a second, Lucy Robertson with a precise shot from just outside the box over the keeper into the back of the net. Margate were stunned and Cray Valley were now very much on top. A corner from Robertson was headed goal wards by Annemarie Blanche and flicked on by Eve Sales but cleared off the line by the Margate defender. Cray Valley enjoyed the majority of possession and continued to create chances for the remainder of the half but went into the interval with just the two goal lead.

Two-nil is always a difficult scoreline and the third goal is usually vital either way. It came from Margate on 65 minutes , Laura Aldridge pouncing on a clearance and scoring with a shot from outside the box into the top of the net. Cray Valley needed to defend well and did so, Margate winning three corners in quick succession at one point.

With fifteen minutes to go Cray Valley restored their two goal advantage with Grace Dodds scoring her first goal of the season, making a difficult chance look easy as she got to the ball first to lift over the advancing keeper to score. This allowed Cray Valley to see the game out and indeed the two best chances fell to Dodds coming in at the back post but clearly keen to add her second couldn't find the composed finish needed.
Full Time 3-1 and with it three points to maintain their 100% league start.

Sunday 14th November 2021 - SECWFL Division 1 East
Sittingbourne Ladies 0 v Cray Valley Ladies 0
Cray Valley Line up: Sharp, Willicombe, D'Urso, Rollings, Morphitis, Dodds, Chenery, Blanche (capt), Robertson, Hicks, Sales, Sub used (roll on roll off) Bodington.

The Millers Ladies earn a point to stay top in goalless draw
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.

Both teams observed two minutes silence on this remembrance day before kick off with Cray Valley Ladies proudly wearing their poppy armbands.

Pleased to report the Millers Ladies arrived safely and on time at Woodstock Park having planned their route to avoid the roadworks and realising that Sittingbourne is in fact not on the coast as somebody within the ranks seemed to think on their pre-match tweet. It was necessary to make full use of the squad today with several absent due to holidays and other reasons, well done to those that stepped up to the plate.

It was a close affair all afternoon with both teams having chances to snatch victory but in the end settling for a point in this entertaining goalless draw. Sittingbourne probably had the better chances in the first half with Cassie Ellard and Sian Boswell having shots just wide of the target. Eve Sales for Cray Valley had a shot which was well saved by the Sittingbourne keeper Paris Reeves after a good through ball from Lucy Robertson.

The second half saw Sittingbourne go close when they hit the bar but it was Cray Valley who finished the stronger and looked more likely to break the deadlock. Eve Sales saw her well struck strike saved by the keeper and another shot went over the top. Annemarie Blanche and Lucy Robertson also both had efforts on goal but the keeper was equal to them.

A draw was probably a fair result as neither side deserved to lose with both defences on top. Cray Valley lose their 100% record in the league but remain unbeaten and in first place after six games. Next week sees a return to cup action and a first visit to play Kings Hill Ladies in the Kent Womens Plate second round.

Sunday 5th December 2021 -SECWFL Division 1 East
Cray Valley Ladies v Aylesford 2nds - Home win awarded walkover

Sunday 12th December 2021 - SECWFL Division 1 East
Castle Colts Ladies 1 v Cray Valley Ladies 4
Goals CC - Casey 38
CV - K Jackson 1, D De Souza 25, A Wilcox 37, K Hicks 62
Cray Valley line up: Sharp, Henry, Wilcox, Rollings, Morphitis, Jackson, Chenery, Blanche (capt), Robertson, De Souza, Sales. Subs all used (roll on, roll off) Colby, Billings, Dodds, Hicks, Willicombe.

Castle breached by Millers Ladies
The Millers Ladies breached Castle Colts defences to win 4-1 at the Ditton Community Centre this afternoon maintaining their unbeaten league start to the season and stay top. The grass pitch was huge, one of the widest I have seen but in excellent condition for this time of the year and the surface encouraged some excellent football from both sides.

Cray took the lead in the opening minute, an excellent through ball from out wide on the right from Lucy Robertson into space in the penalty area for Katie Jackson to run onto, getting the vital touch in front of the defender and lift the ball past the keeper. Danielle De Souza was credited with the second goal on 25 minutes getting the last touch before being helped over the line by the Castle defender.

Annemarie Blanche then went close producing a fine save from the Castle keeper and shortly after had another effort blocked. Cray defence had to be on alert as Castle were always a threat on the break. A through ball from Lydia Holland found the pacey Sarah Saputo who raced through but her powerful shot went just over the bar.

Cray went 3-0 ahead on 37 minutes, Robertson's corner flicked off the head of Alice Wilcox running in at the near post to score her first goal for the club. Almost immediately Castle pulled a goal back Jennifer Casey's strike from well over 30 yards out giving Sam Sharp in goal no chance lobbing over her head.

Second half saw Cray making full use of the roll on roll off system and it was one of the substitutes Katie Hicks who added a fourth on 62 minutes, taking advantage of the Castle keeper not holding onto the ball and stabbing home from close range. Hicks nearly added another minutes later, this time the keeper making a fine save diving to her left.

Louise Chenery went on an excellent run from the half way line, her final ball just evading De Sousa at the far post. As the final whistle approached Claire Willicombe did find the back of the net but the offside flag was correctly raised. Full time and a deserved 4-1 victory for Cray.

Sunday 9th January 2022 - SECWFL Division 1 East
Glebe Ladies 1 v Cray Valley Ladies 2
Goals: G - Keable 74
CV - Blanche 14, Jackson 43
Cray Valley Ladies line up: Sharp, Henry, Billings, Rollings, Morphitis, Jackson, Chenery, Blanche, Dodds, De Souza, Sales, Subs: Colby, Knipe (both used, roll on, roll off)

Valley Ladies earn hard fought victory at Glebe
Cray Valley Ladies stay top of the SECWFL Division 1 East with a hard fought win at Glebe by two goals to one. Credit to Glebe for getting the game played after yesterdays rain, the match switched to one of the excellent Queen Mary University of London pitches located behind their main ground.

Cray took the lead in the 14th minute a cracking strike from the edge of the box from captain Annemarie Blanche which gave the keeper no chance. This was after the ball had been laid back into Annie's path following good work from Danielle De Souza and Eve Sales. Shortly after Jordan Springett went close for Glebe her low shot across goal after she was put through going just wide of the far post.

On the half hour Cray had a goal ruled out, Eve Sales slotting home as the ball broke but Annemarie Blanche was adjudged to have fouled the keeper as she challenged. Sam Sharp in the Cray goal then made a good save holding on well to the ball to prevent any follow up.

Just before the interval Cray increased their lead a fine finish from Katie Jackson who slotted past the advancing keeper as she went through on goal. Half Time and Cray lead 2-0.

Second half and Glebe enjoyed plenty of possession and Cray were forced to defend well as a number of corners were earned although the keeper was rarely troubled. Glebe did though pull a goal back with sixteen minutes remaining Jeanie Keable finishing well shooting low into the far corner as she broke through cutting inside from the edge of the box.

This set up a tense finish as Glebe looked for equaliser but Cray held firm and continued to defend well. Full time and it finished 1-2 with Cray taking all three points. Glebe will feel they deserved something for their efforts but Cray's two quality first half goals and some excellent defending proved decisive.

Next week sees a return to cup action as Cray host Dartford Women Reserves at Oxford Road in the Kent Womens Plate, ko 1.30pm. Dartford moved onto second place in the league this afternoon with a thumping 14-0 victory over Ramsgate Women so a tough encounter is anticipated.

Sunday 23rd January 2022 - SECWFL Division 1 East
Margate Ladies 2 v Cray Valley Ladies 3
Goals: M - K Richardson 6, W Bukowska 78 (Pen)
CV - L Robertson 48, 90, G Dodds 54
Millers line up: Sharp, Henry, Dodds, Rollings, Morphitis, Chenery, Blanche, Goldsmith, Robertson, De Souza, Sales, Subs: (all used, roll on, roll off) D'Urso, Bodington, Knipe, Hicks.

Millers Ladies Celebrate Late Winner at the Gate
Matches between these two sides invariably produce close affairs and today was no exception, an entertaining competitive game of football with both sides playing some excellent football. On balance I think Cray deserved the victory but were made to work hard for the three points by the Gate, the winner eventually coming in the 90th minute.

The Gate took the lead in the sixth minute, the ball falling to Kara Richardson on the edge of the box, after a mis-placed clearance, who took full advantage with a good finish. Cray went in search of an equaliser, first the keeper saved from Annemarie Blanche followed shortly after by a Louise Chenery low shot across goal which hit the inside of the far post but stayed out. Claire Goldsmith latching on to a Grace Dodds cross also went close but it remained 1-0 to the hosts at the interval.

Second half and within minutes the Millers once again struck the inside of the post, this time Danielle De Souza seeing her low shot stay out. With almost the next attack though the equaliser came, Claire Goldsmith's well timed pass into the path of Lucy Robertson was slotted home first time into the bottom far corner.

Six minutes later a Lucy Robertson free kick in a central position outside the area was pushed around the post for a corner, from which Cray went 2-1 ahead. Lucy Robertson's corner was touched on by Lauren Henry and Grace Dodds at the near post flicked the ball goalwards, with the referee well positioned to confirm that the ball was over the line before being cleared.

On the huge 3G pitch both teams had to work hard as openings were created at both ends. Samantha Sharp in the Millers goal did well commanding her area to first catch and then punch away a couple of dangerous looking corners. The Gate keeper also produced a good save to keep out Annemarie Blanche as she broke through.

In the 78 minute the Millers conceded a penalty, Courtney Rollings bringing down the attacker with a desperate attempt to win the ball. The penalty was duly despatched by Wiktoria Bukowska to bring the scores level at 2-2. Samantha Sharp then made a vital save, positioned well to comfortably hold on to the free kick. In another attack the Gate striker got a vital head on a through ball to send the ball goal wards but Lauren Henry got back to clear and punt the ball away for a throw in.

With time running out the Millers grabbed a deserved winner a Lauren Henry cross from the right wing found the head of Lucy Robertson at the far post to superbly finish back across goal into the back of the net. The Millers players and contingent on the bench celebrated as the final whistle blew a few minutes later ensuring today's three points and the unbeaten league run continuing.

Sunday 30th January 2022 - SECWFL Division 1 East
Baldon Sports 1 v Cray Valley Ladies 0
Goals: BS - Colaluca 23
Millers line up: Sharp, Henry, Morphitis, De Souza, Durso, Chenery, Blanche (capt), Goldsmith, Llewelyn, Hicks, Robertson, subs all used (roll on, roll off) Jackson, Wilcox, Sales, Dodds, Bodington.

The Millers Ladies Suffer First League Defeat of the Season
Cray Valley Ladies suffered their first league defeat of the season, ending a run of nine league matches unbeaten, winning eight, narrowly losing by the only goal of the game in the 23rd minute to Baldon Sports played at The Oaks, Eltham Town FC. A close competitive game with chances at both ends and some excellent defending.

Cray started brightly, Lucy Robertson with the first shot on goal, saved by the keeper. Sam in the Cray goal then produced a fine save but could do nothing when Sports scored in the twenty-third minute, the shot from Kaley Colaluca out wide just inside the box perfectly placed into the bottom corner .

Kimberley Dixon rolling back the years from her Charlton days was influential playing in an advanced role for the Sports and the Cray defenders did well to keep her at bay. On a muddy pitch it was a credit to both sides that they continued to try and play passing football.

Cray for whatever reason were not at their best today and over the 90 minutes Baldon Sports deserved the win, often first to second ball and showing a real eagerness throughout.

Sunday 6th February 2022 - Friendly
Bromleians 0 Cray Valley Ladies 4
Goals: CV - K Jackson (18'), (76'), S Llewelyn (43'), C Goldsmith (90')
Cray Ladies Line Up: Sharp, Knipe, Wilcox, Morphitis, Dodds, Jackson, Blanche (capt), Goldsmith, Robertson, Sales, Bodington. Subs all used (roll on, rolloff) Llewelyn, Henry, Chenery, D'Urso, Atkins.

Sunday 13th February 2022 - SECWFL Division 1 East
Borough Green Junior Ladies 1 v Cray Valley Ladies 1
Goals: BG - Scotton-Earle 3
CV - De Souza 32
Cray line up: Sharp, Henry, Morphitis, D'Urso, De Souza, Jackson, Chenery, Blanche (capt), Goldsmith, Robertson, Atkins, Subs used (roll on, roll off) Rollings, Dodds, Wilcox, Sales. Sub not used: Colby

Millers Ladies earn a point on the road
A good point earned or two lost, that was one of the topics of debate at the end of todays game...only time will tell the correct answer on that conundrum.

Cray made their first ever trip to Potters Mede, the wide pitch situated in a lovely country setting surrounded by trees, to play Borough Green Ladies. Boro took an early lead in the third minute, an Allison Scotton-Earle shot from the edge of the box finding the bottom corner.

Cray went in search of an equaliser, Katie Jackson broke and had a shot saved at the near post and on another occasion Cray did have the ball in the net after the initial corner broke down and was crossed back into the six yard box but was ruled offside. Cray's equaliser finally coming on 32 minutes through Danielle De Souza, a good finish from just inside the box. Lucy Robertson then went close just before the interval, her low shot agonisingly going the wrong side of the far post.

Second half and with the rain continuing to fall chances fell to both teams, Samantha Sharp in the Cray goal made an excellent double save, first parrying a shot and then holding on to the rebound effort with strikers ready to pounce, a key moment in the match. At the other end an appeal for handball waived away and the ball fell to Lucy Robertson in the area but was unable to direct her shot away from the keeper.

Cray thought they had scored at one point, the keeper just getting back in time to stop the ball and throw doubt as to whether the whole of the ball had crossed the line. No goal line technology here of course and one that the referee cannot be certain of and understandably ruled no goal. Claire Goldsmith protested too much and received a yellow for dissent earning Cray's first sin bin of the season. The ten minute period in which Cray were a player down seemed to galvanise them and they were able to prevent Boro from taking advantage.

The Boro keeper made a good save late on as Cray searched in vain for a late winner, a feature in a couple of games already this season but today it was not to be. The game finished 1-1 and a point a piece.

Sunday 6th March 2022 - SECWFL Division 1 East
Dartford Women Reserves 2 v Cray Valley Ladies 1
Goals: D - White 23 (pen), Roswell 81
CV - Llewellyn 60
Cray Line Up: Sharp, Henry, D'Urso, Feagan, Morphitis, Jackson, Blanche (capt), Goldsmith, Robertson, Llewellyn, De Souza , Subs (roll on roll off) Chenery, Sales, Atkins, Hicks, Colby

Fine Lines - Millers Ladies Fall Just Short
An excellent close competitive game of football highlighted what fine lines separate winning and losing. On a cold but thankfully dry afternoon a venue switch saw the game played at The Leigh Academy, there was certainly plenty of grass on the pitch, which ideally could have done with a cut, but as always the same for both sides.

Darts enjoyed the better of the opening period in the first half, Samantha Sharp in the Cray goal made a good save early on. Darts then took the lead after 23 minutes through a penalty after a foul in the box, Cray having lost possession as they tried to clear. Darts were on top although Cray did create chances, first a good run and shot from Sara Llewellyn and then Katie Jackson broke through only to be brought down, a foul leading to a booking for the Darts defender. A Lauren Henry cross found the head of Danielle De Souza but the keeper was on hand to save. Darts then went close themselves, a shot wizzing past the post. Half Time Darts lead 1-0.

Whereas the first half had seen the Darts in the ascendency, Cray were much more positive in the second and enjoyed greater possession as they went in search of an equaliser. Claire Goldsmith had a shot blocked and Lucy Robertson from the rebound forced the keeper to make a save. Cray equalised on the hour, an excellent strike from Llewellyn finding the back of the net. Four minutes later Llewellyn saw her shot saved by the keeper.

The winning goal for the Darts came on 81 minutes, a bit of a scramble ensued in the six yard box as first Sharp in goal had made a good block and with Cray defender Lia Morphitis on the floor the Darts striker managed to get the all important touch to force the ball over the line. `

In the final couple of minutes Cray went agonisingly close as the ball fell in the six yard box to Jackson but with what appeared an open goal her shot seemed to lift over the bar. Always easy from the side line of course. Fine lines indeed.

The win for the Darts certainly makes for an interesting three way chase for the title along with Baldon Sports. Whilst games in hand puts others in a strong position Cray will not rule themselves out as we all know football is about fine lines and whose to say there won't be a few more twists and turns in the run in. Next Sunday sees Cray back at Oxford Road for a home fixture v Castle Colts, kick off 2pm.

SECWFL Division 1 East
Current Table - Top Three
1. Cray Valley P13 W9 D2 L2 GD +16 PTS 29
2. Baldon Sports P12 W9 D1 L2 GD +35 PTS 28
3. Dartford Reserves P11 W8 D0 L3 GD +32 PTS 24

Sunday 13th March 2022 - SECWFL Division 1 East
Cray Valley Ladies 5 v Casle Colts Ladies 0
Goals: CV -A Blanche 8, 87, C Goldsmith 23, L Henry 60, 71
Cray line up: Sharp, Wilcox, Morphitis, D'Urso, Rollings, Jackson, Blanche (capt), Goldsmith, Chenery, Robertson, Atkins. Subs all used (roll on, roll off) Sales, Henry, Hicks, Willicombe

Millers Ladies Return to Winning Ways
Cray Valley Ladies returned to winning ways but were made to battle all the way by a spirited Castle Colts who were a player short throughout. Cray will be pleased with both the result and performance and it was noticeable that they looked more relaxed today, shorn of the pressures of the recent top of the table clashes.

Cray started brightly and Lucy Robertson looked to have opened the scoring but her effort was ruled out for an offside. It wasn't long after though that Cray did indeed take the lead on 8th minutes, the ball broke out wide to Lia Morphitis whose cross in was met by the head of captain Annemarie Blanche catching the advancing keeper flat footed and guiding the ball over her head into the empty net.

That lead was doubled on 23 minutes Claire Goldsmith powering a header home from Lucy Robertson's cross. Sarah Saputo and Saskia Harris looked dangerous on the break for Colts and Samantha Sharp was forced to make a good save and shortly after Saputo went close her low shot across goal going just past the post. HT 2-0

Second half and Cray began to dominate adding a third on the hour from a Robertson corner, Lauren Henry with a glancing header. Another Robertson corner led to the fourth and again it was Henry the scorer, this time stabbing home the knock down with her right foot. With around twenty minutes remaining it was good to see Claire Willicombe back on the field of play for the first time in a while and came close to a spectacular finish but her attempted volley was blocked. Blanche added her second and completed the scoring with a few minutes remaining, Robertson's corner was cleared and put back into the mix by Vittoria D'Urso, a fine finish from Blanche steering her volley on the turn into the bottom corner of the net. FT 5-0

Sunday 20th March 2022 - Friendly
Cray Valley Ladies 5 Footscray Lionesses 1
Goals: CV - C Knipe (32'), K Jackson (42'), (58'), A Blanche (54'), C Rollings (84')
FL - Unknown 90
Cray line up: Sharp, Henry, D'Urso, Rollings, Morphitis, Jackson, Goldsmith, Blanche (capt), Robertson, Sales, Knipe, Sub used (roll on roll off) Dodds

Sunday 27th March 2022 - SECWFL Division 1 East
Aylesford 2nds 0 v Cray Valley Ladies 1
Goals: CV - Blanche 30 (pen)
Cray line up: Sharp, Henry, D'Urso, Rollings, Morphitis, Jackson, Chenery, Blanche (capt), Goldsmith, Robertson, Llewellyn. Subs: Sales, Dodds, Atkins, Hicks, Knipe.

Blanche spot kick wins it for the Ladies
Cray Valley Ladies beat Aylesford 2nds by a solitary goal at the Aylesford Recreation ground. A first half penalty scored by captain Annemarie Blanche after Sara Llewellyn was brought down earning all three points. The win keeps them top of the league although both Baldon Sports and Dartford Reserves have games in hand meaning all three sides remain very much in the hunt for the title.

As is customary I try to make a few notes of the action in preparation for the match report each game. Todays notes highlighted some some excellent passing football, but unfortunately chance after chance went begging, too numerous to cover in detail now. Fortunately the defence and Sam Sharp in goal remained diligent and alert throughout to keep a clean sheet and ensure the one goal was sufficient.

Gracie Ware in the Aylesford goal earned the vote for opposition player of the match with a string of excellent saves, a Lucy Robertson free kick which looked destined for the top corner probably the pick. Other notable saves were from Blanche's second penalty kick along with the follow up effort from Robertson. The hardworking Louise Chenery was voted our player of the match by the opposition.

Sunday 3rd April 2022 - SECWFL Division 1 East
Cray Valley Ladies 3 v Borough Green Junior Ladies 1
Goals: CV - Blanche 32, Llewellyn 46, Sales 89
BG - Upstill 28
Cray Line Up: Sharp, Henry, Wilcox, Rollings, Morphitis, Jackson, Goldsmith, Blanche (capt), Chenery, Robertson, Llewellyn, Subs used (roll on, roll off) De Souza, Sales, Hicks, not used D'Urso.

Match Report courtesy of Claire Wllicombe
Cray Ladies triumph over Borough
Both teams enjoyed early shots on goal, on 22 minutes fine footwork from Cray's Lucy Robertson and her shot from the edge of the box went close. However it was Borough Green who took the lead in the 28th minute, pressure out wide on the left resulted in a shot from the edge of the box by Lucy Upstill which found the back of the net just evading the out stretched reach of Sam Sharp in the Cray goal. Four minutes later the scores were again level, Lauren Henry free kick was bundled over the line by Cray captain Annemarie Blanche for the equaliser. HT 1-1

Second half and within a minute of the restart, Cray took the lead with a well worked goal. Henry out wide on the right, pass inside to Louise Chenery, finds Blanche who lays the ball off for Sara Llewellyn to finish with a fine low drive into the corner. (pictured below) Borough pressed forward looking for an equaliser and went close from a couple of free kicks but Sharp was on hand to save and on another occasion punch clear.

Cray finished the game strongly forcing a number of corners and free kicks. in the closing minutes Cray added a third to make the game safe, a Sharp long punt upfield finding Eve Sales who finished well her shot looping over the keeper. FT 3-1

Sunday 1st May 2022 - SECWFL Division 1 East
Cray Valley Ladies 3 v Dartford Women Reserves 0
Goals: CV - J Elliott 56, A Blanche 87, D De Souza 90

Cray Valley line up: Sharp, Henry, D'Urso, Rollings, Atkins, Jackson, Chenery, Blanche (capt), Goldsmith, Robertson, Elliott. Subs (roll on *, roll off ) De Souza *, Sales *, Atkins, Hicks, Knipe

Cray Ladies title push remains on track as Darts beaten
Cray Valley Ladies run out 3-0 winners in a closely fought contest at Oxford Road. After an even goalless first half the deadlock was finally broken when Josie Elliott back in action after a long injury lay off put Cray ahead in the 56th minute a fine finish inside the area after Dartford had given the ball away. Annemarie Blanche added a second late on with an excellent strike into the top corner from close in. In the 90th minute Danielle De Sousa completed the scoring volleying home from just outside the six yard box after Lucy Robertson's corner was headed away by the Darts defender.

An excellent performance from Cray who defended very well particularly in the second half, Courtney Rollings earning her teams vote for player of the match. A deserved three points against a good Dartford side who remain in third place. Cray now occupy top spot spot one point ahead of Baldon Sports who won today 1-0 away at Glebe. Cray's final league game is on Sunday 15th May at Oxford Road and promises to be a tough encounter against local rivals Glebe ko 2pm. A victory for Cray would see them win the title.

Sunday 15th May 2022 - SECWFL Division1 East
Cray Valley Ladies 5 v Glebe Ladies 0

Goals: CV -S Llewelyn 14, C Goldsmith 42, K Jackson 60, L Henry 75 (Pen), L Robertson 83
Cray line up: Sharp, Henry, D'Urso, Rollings, Wilcox, Jackson, Blanche (capt), Goldsmith, Chenery, Robertson, Llewelyn. Subs used roll on roll off, Dodds, Atkins, De Souza, Sales. Not used Elliott.

Champions
Cray Valley Ladies secured the three points needed with a professional display to be crowned Champions of the South East Counties Women's League Division One East. An under strength Glebe side battled well including an inspired display from their keeper Jody Lazell who excelled, making a series of excellent saves to keep the scoreline down.

Sara Llewelyn broke the deadlock on 14 minutes, a fine strike from the edge of the box low into the bottom corner of the net. Claire Goldsmith added a second just before the interval her deflected shot beating the keeper. HT 2-0

Katie Jackson scored on the hour to make it three and with 15 minutes remaining Lucy Robertson was fouled just inside the area. Lauren Henry stepped up to take the penalty and smashed it past the keeper into the corner. Robertson herself then added the fifth and final goal of the game with just under ten minutes remaining.

A slight drizzle throughout the afternoon couldn't dampen the mood and Cray Valley celebrated on the final whistle winning the league by one point ahead of Baldon Sports with Dartford Reserves in third place. The victory made it nine out of nine home league games at Oxford Road this season.

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